Turkey Removes Visa Requirement for Travelers from the U.S. and Canada

For those eager to experience the majestic Byzantine dome of Hagia Sophia, the vibrant markets of Istanbul, the historic city of Ephesus, and the breathtaking views of Cappadocia from a hot air balloon, there’s great news: visiting Turkey has become simpler and more affordable.

Beginning January 1, U.S. travelers can now visit without the need for an e-visa in advance. This change also eliminates the $52 processing fee.

“Americans traveling to Turkey no longer need a visa to explore one of the most popular destinations for U.S. tourists,” stated Go Türkiye, the national tourism board, in a press release. “2023 marked a record year for American tourism in Turkey, and with the visa requirement lifted, 2024 is poised to be even more successful.”

For U.S. travelers, this new policy means they can enter Turkey as effortlessly as they would a Western European nation—just by showing up. However, a passport valid for at least six months and with one blank page for entry and exit stamps is still necessary, as noted by the U.S. Department of State.

American travelers can stay in Turkey for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. As per the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Turkey, anyone exceeding the 90-day limit will incur a fine upon leaving (the amount varies based on the duration of the overstay) and may face a re-entry ban of up to six months.

Alongside the visa exemption for U.S. travelers, Turkey has also removed the visa requirement for citizens from Bahrain, Canada, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. Currently, around 80 countries can visit Turkey without a visa, mainly from Europe, South America, and the Middle East.

This change will also facilitate participation in Turkish Airlines’ free stopover program, where any traveler with a minimum 20-hour layover in Istanbul can benefit from the “Stopover in Istanbul” offer. This includes a complimentary hotel stay—economy passengers receive one night in a four-star hotel, while business-class travelers are granted two nights in a five-star hotel.

While Turkey is dropping its visa requirement, Brazil is set to reintroduce one. Effective April 10, 2024, U.S. citizens will need to obtain an e-visa to enter Brazil; this will cost $81 and be valid for 10 years, allowing multiple entries during that period.